Tatlanika and Wood River Area, Alaska
The most common soil here is E29-boreal taiga-loamy frozen terraces, on about 32% of the land. E29-boreal forest-gravelly terraces and E29-boreal taiga-loamy frozen channels come next.
About under 1% of the land drains well, and all stays wet for long stretches; groundwater comes within two feet of the surface under 67% of it.
USDA rates all of the land very limited for a standard septic drain field, and all very limited for homes with basements. That means extra cost or special design, not that it can't be done.
Worth knowing: 33% of the land floods occasionally or more.
Soils change over short distances, so look up an address below for the soil at that exact spot and the reasons behind each rating.
The biggest mapped areas
The dominant drainage class is Poorly drained and the dominant hydrologic group is D (very slow infiltration, high runoff). The most common soil order is Gelisols — permafrost soils found in very cold climates. This report summarizes the major soil map units across the survey area to help you understand what to expect when buying, building, or gardening in Tatlanika and Wood River Area, Alaska. Search your address to find the exact soil composition, drainage, and series details at your specific location.
| Soil Map Unit | Acres | Drainage | Hydro Group | Dwellings | Septic |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Interior Alaska Lowlands-Boreal Lowland-Fan Terraces and Stream Terraces | 472K | Poorly drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Interior Alaska Lowlands-Boreal Lowland-Alluvial Plains, Wet | 252K | Very poorly drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Interior Alaska Mountains-Boreal Upland and Alpine-Plains and Hills | 14K | Poorly drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Interior Alaska Lowlands-Boreal Lowland-Flood Plains and Terraces, High Elevation | 7K | Poorly drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Interior Alaska Mountains-Boreal Upland-Rounded Mountains | 7K | Poorly drained | C/D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Interior Alaska Highlands-Boreal Upland-Rounded Mountains, Acid | 1K | Well drained | A | Very limited | Very limited |
Soil Orders in This Area
The USDA classifies every soil into one of 12 soil orders. Here are the dominant orders found in this survey area.
What This Means
Building & Foundations
About 100% of soils are rated "very limited" for dwellings with basements. Specific challenges include steep slopes, poor drainage in some areas, flood-prone areas. A geotechnical assessment is recommended before building.
Septic Systems
About 100% of soils are rated "very limited" for septic absorption fields. Poorly drained soils can't absorb septic effluent effectively. Engineered or alternative systems are frequently required. Always get a professional perc test before purchasing land that needs septic.
Gardening & Agriculture
Many soils hold water for extended periods. Raised beds are highly recommended to improve drainage for vegetables. Well-adapted native plants and water-loving species will do best in natural conditions.